Philip's Experiments, or, Physical Science at Home (1898), episode 1

On the latest episode of the podcast with readings so interesting they put you to sleep, we begin the reading of an entire book: “Philip’s Experiments, or, Physical Science at Home” by John Trowbridge (1898). Today it might be called homeschooling or unschooling: A father describes how he developed in his son Philip “the ability to do things.” In this first episode, forgettable classroom lectures and books are put aside in favor of natural curiosity, observation and practical experience around a country home. First, Philip is required to make a drawing of some observed object every day. Progress is slow at first, but the father’s motto is “faint but pursuing,” and in time Philip not only draws better but becomes a sharper observer of the natural phenomena around him. The entire book will probably run about twelve half-hour episodes. 

You can support The Forgotten Bookshelf and get a bonus reading of an essay by Edgar Allan Poe. Please go to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theforgottenbookshelf/extras, and thank you!